Ocean acidification

The oceans naturally absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. When human activity increases the amount of carbon in the atmosphere, the ocean must absorb more to balance the global system, making the ocean water more acidic. This process is called ocean acidification, and can negatively impact marine life such as corals, reef fishes, and clams. In corals and other animals with calcium carbonate skeletons, the acidity of the water can cause their skeletons to dissolve. This stress can kill the animals.